Recently, nanoscience and nanotechnology have been at the forefront of scientific interest and investigation. Nanomaterials have numerous applications and the industry is predicted to contribute $2.5 trillion to the global economy by 2015. In an attempt to encourage interest in nanoscience in the minds of young students, which will become the next generation of environmentally conscientious scientists and engineers, this unique, laboratory activity focuses on both “green” and “nongreen” methods of the synthesis of noble nanoparticles (NPs). In addition to focusing on the environmental aspects of synthesizing NPs, this activity incorporates a guided, inquiry-based exploration of alternative, environmentally-friendly fabrication methods of both gold and silver NPs. This hands-on activity involves implementing “green” reducing agents (e.g. tea extracts, coffee, honey and banana peel) to produce gold and silver NPs. This inquiry-based activity was developed according to the five essential factors of scientific inquiry accepted by the National Research Council. This activity was successfully used with science and engineering students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Students gained theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience with both conventional, non-green methods for the fabrication of colloidal gold and silver NPs. Participants in this session will participate in the synthesis of NPs using “green” fabrication techniques and compare results to traditional methods of NP fabrication. In addition, new laboratory skills, an increased interest in green nanochemistry and experience in creative and critical thinking are developed through this laboratory.

Hands-on, inquiry-based laboratory experiment for chemistry and engineering students comparing "green" and "nongreen" Noble metal nanoparticle synthesis methods

249th National Meeting (2015)

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